Five Must-Dos in PBO
Being a member of a Purdue Bands & Orchestras ensemble opens up countless doors for involvement. Of course, our top priority in the department is our commitment to the ensemble, but the traditions and opportunities available to us are hard to pass up. The history behind the department as a part of Purdue University is fascinating, and we have a chance to delve into that history and become a part of it ourselves as students. Our time as students passes by quickly, so it’s important to take advantage of the opportunities available to us while we have the chance. Here are some of what many would consider must-dos in Purdue Bands & Orchestras.
- Learn the band lyrics to “Hail Purdue.” This is something pretty special to our department. There aren’t many people on campus that can say that they have lyrics in the official school fight song dedicated specifically to their department. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being at a band banquet surrounded by students, faculty, and special alumnae all singing the words to the band verse together. It creates a sense of family and welcoming, and reminds us how special our department is to the university. It’s an especially heart-warming feeling when you can sing the verse without reading the lyrics off of the banquet program.
2. Participate in the Indy 500. Of course, this one is specific to the All-American Marching Band. Being a part of the race festivities is a voluntary commitment, but it is honestly a life-changing experience. Being able to stand down by the pagoda right next to the starting line as the race begins is something that not many people can say that they’ve done. The environment is awe-inspiring; from the IPL 500 Festival Parade to the race itself, the excitement behind the event is something that you don’t want to miss. The AAMB is approaching the 100th anniversary of its participation in the race. If anything, you should participate for the honor of being a part of such a historic event.
3. Support other ensembles. Since Purdue does not have a music major, we’re all in this department simply because we love what we do. We’re in it for the music, the performances, and the friendships that come with it. Take a bit of time out of your schedule to support people from other ensembles. Whether it be a jazz, orchestra, wind ensemble, or even Tuba Christmas concert, it’s always an honor to be able to admire the talent of your peers and support the time and energy they put into each and every performance. You may even make new friends in the process.
4. March through the University Street parking garage. This is another “All-American Marching Band” activity. It occurs every Gold Day, before a home football game, and band members will be able to experience it on multiple occasions. It’s quite the spectacle to see a 300+ member band marching through a parking garage attempting to keep time with all of the echoes, and it’s even more entertaining for the members themselves. Belting out the lyrics to “Hail Purdue” in the middle of the parking garage is an experience unlike any other, and it’s definitely a memory to cherish once we leave college.
5. Finally, never forget to “share the video!” As much of a meme as this phrase has become, Purdue Day of Giving is an important event for our department. It shows just how much dedication we have for Purdue Bands & Orchestras and allows us to raise funds to be able to continue to do what we love.
For many students in Purdue Bands & Orchestras, being a member of an ensemble is one of the greatest aspects of their college experience. We spend countless hours preparing for performances and make lasting memories in the process. It’s important to take advantage of the opportunities available to students in the department. Our time here won’t last forever and we have to make the most of it while we can.
